I am looking for suggestions on good wading boots and caring for wading boots. *I've been using the Patagonia boots for a couple of years now. *The first pair wore out within about 1 year and they replaced them for me. *Now the second pair is falling apart even worse than the first pair less than a year after I got them. *I guess I'm just too hard on my boots. *First question, how long should I expect a good pair of boots to last me? *To put this in perspective, I fish probably 60-70 days a year and a lot of these days includes hiking at least some in my wading boots. *Should I try to refrain from hiking while wearing my boots? *

Secondly, has anyone ever used a shoe repair shop to fix wading boots? *I'm thinking about trying to get mine restitched and new felt soles put on. *Is this worth the money or should I just get a new pair.
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Finally, any recommendations on wading boots would be appreciated as I might end up needing to buy a new pair. I'm a college student so price is a factor...

Thanks for any help and advice!

David Knapp

I've gone thru several over the last five or six years, and here's my thought on them:
I had a pair of Simms boots that were very nice, but they were cut too small. If I were to but them again I'd but them a Half size larger.
The Hodgmen boots are junk, but I actually like the velcro straps. You can tighten them up after you've had them on awhile.
I've been wearing a pair of Danners for a year now, and they are not bad boots. A little heavy, and seem to take too long to break in. I'd also like them to be a little "fuller" in the way they cut the toe.
I have bad ankles, and these offer some of the best support I've seen. Mine are not cleated, but just plain felt soled. I've yet to see a problem with them.
I tried on the Chotas, and they just didn't fit my feet right at the top. Could have offered a little more support on the ankles. But still are a very good boot. About on par with Simms in quality. I like to wear heavy wading socks, and when you add the wader and these socks things can get alittle tight in the toe region.
gary